03/09/2026
A few weeks ago, we had the honor and great privilege of scattering the ashes of our late friend and well-known RNLI colleague, David Alan Nicholson—affectionately known as "Dan" to his RNLI family and friends.
Dan sadly passed away earlier this year, leaving behind an incredible legacy. Throughout his career, he worked in various vital roles across the organization, including Lifeboat Training Officer and Divisional Inspector. He was integral to introducing RYA accreditation for our volunteer crews, as well as the introduction of our training and inspection visits.
Dan and his family held Moelfre and Traeth Bychan in particular very close to their hearts. They enjoyed many happy holidays at their cottage on the beach, and it was a great honor for our crew to scatter Dan’s ashes in Traeth Bychan Bay, with his close family present, overlooking the magnificent views he loved so much.
The Photos kindly shared by the family are of Dan alongside Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II on July 28, 2004, during the official opening of the RNLI College in Poole.
The second picture is of Dan, his wife Chris, their daughter, and their son-in-law at Islay Lifeboat Station during a sailing holiday in the Western Isles. Word had gotten out that Dan was sailing in the area, so the local crew at Islay escorted them to a safe mooring and treated them to a breakfast of local whisky at 11am!
Fair winds and following seas, Dan. ⚓🌊
